MILTMON - Groove Guru
The MILTMON (Milt Januse), the Guru of the Groove for many. Milt has lent his grooves to such noables as Kinky Friedman, Suzanne Vega and The Night Tripper himself, Dr John. Milt's extensive career has taken him all over the map touring Bermuda, Hawaii, Japan, Australia and his all time favorite New Orleans.
Milt studied at the altar of Jazz great Joe Morello.
Milt's sound is built on a very unique combination of instruments that were made in the far away places his musical life has taken him, Cajons and Djembes from Central and South America, Klong Yau, windchimes, exotic tambourines and shakers from the orient as well as the bayou. You can't miss the strong N'awlins influence! One thing is fo sure, Miltmon has plenty of gris gris to go around!
MARK HAMZA - Air Keyboards
Mark's a road warrior and musical encyclopedia. His unique approach to American roots music interpret's ethnic classics in the same cosmic space as chicago blues, zydeco, and folk with his custom Sano Accordion fitted with Italian Perdomenicci Reeds and Stereo Bass! A strange and wonderful brew indeed mon. In addition to The HOT Take-out Band Mark has performed with legendary Jazzman Phil Woods, bluesman Clarence Spady, Suzanne Vega, Richard Shindell and many others. Mark was also featured on Eric Anderson's "Ghosts of the Road" CD. His masterfully original blues accordian will bowl you over and make you wonder how he can make his instrument sound like a B3!!!
HOWARD PARKER - SONG SUPPLIER
Singer/Songwriter/Guitarist. Howard's approach to songwriting and performing is a tribute to his roots as well as his friendships. Working over the years with New Jersey songwriters Greg Stier, John Hynes, DaVido, Irwin Levine and Richard Lester as both collaborator and guitarist/producer has contributed significantly toward Howards unique approach to songwriting as well as establishing his highly identifiable American roots style.
Parker's songwriting style can best be described as introspective. He sings about embracing one's true nature, loving peoples foibles, living a dream and facing paranoia. He connects with fans-new and old- because his songs speak the truth about who we are and what we hope to become.
As comfortable in a coffeehouse as he is in a concert hall, Howard has connected with his fans in a wide variety of venues.
Howard has appeared with His HOT Take-out Band at CBGB's, The Bitter End, Terra Blues, Manny's Carwash, as well as The Bottom Line with the band "Neon Prairee"in NYC. NJ venues include Maxwell's, Van Gogh's Ear, The Prallsville Mill, Fat Tuesdays, The Muse, The Folk Project and many more. Pennsylvania venues include Sarah ST Grill, Porter's Pub, Pearly Bakers.
Howard's TV appearances include nationally syndicated "The Mort Downey Show" several years ago with longtime friend and collaborator D. M. Spear (aka DaVido) , as well as local cable progamming in NYC, NJ, Pa and MD.
Howard recently founded "One Square Mile Community Music Project" a non-profit organization dedicated to the vision of letting the power of music be a source for healing and hope. (www.onesquaremilecommunitymusicproject.com)
He is a member of ASCAP, WAMA, SAW and is also a founding member of HLTA (Hunterdon Land Trust Alliance) which actively supports the preservation of farmland as well as sensitive wildlife and open space in New Jersey.
STEVE "O" NELSON - SPICERACK
Used to work @ Nawlins very own Tippatina's!! Steve "O" formerly of SWAMPADELICA is the creator of the "Percussion Board". Has played with THe Neville Brothers, Subdudes, Radiators, Phish, Zachary Richard,and many others.
A dynamic frontman and songwriter who can put a cajon spell on the audience at will. His classic edgy vocals will melt the ice in your drink.